Head of Finance

We are looking for our new Head of Finance to provide leadership and oversight to the Finance Team.

Reporting directly to the Director of Corporate Services and working closely with the Senior Management Team, you will provide clear financial leadership, analysis, and robust financial management to support both operational excellence and strategic decision-making.

As Head of Finance, you will be responsible for ensuring the finance department delivers accurate, timely, and meaningful financial information while maintaining strong financial controls and supporting the continued development of the organisation. You will also support with delivery and development of Direct Payments Managed Accounts and Direct Payments Payroll.

The role will predominately be office based, with occasional hybrid working. We welcome both full or part time applications, working either 4 or 5 days per week (30 - 37.5 hours)

Key Responsibilities

• Monthly financial monitoring of the care company and its service within, including any subsidiary companies, reporting spend variances to budget and reasons for why.
• Efficiently manage the day-to-day operation of the service, providing leadership, development and oversight of the finance team
• Financial reporting and writing through to attending Southend Care Limited (SCL) Board to present financial information
• To lead on the financial modelling of further business opportunities and re-shaping of existing service provision where required working with the Senior Management Team
• Lead the coordination and support of the remaining back-office finance functions provided by the Council. i.e VAT returns, transactional bank clear down process, and cash management.
• Responsible for production of the year end accounts and audited (which must be completed by the end of May) to be consolidated in the Council’s own group accounts.
• Ensure the delivery of Direct Payment – Managed Accounts in line with the Service Specification

About you

We're looking for a finance leader who enjoys ownership and developing people and improving wants to play a meaningful role in a growing business.

Ideally you will have experience of reporting to Board. Experience or knowledge of either Local Authority Trading Companies or Adult Social Care would be advantageous.

• Fully qualified ACA, ACCA or CIMA accountant.
• Experience in a senior finance leadership role.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including preparation of statutory accounts.
• Experience of financial planning, forecasting, budgeting and business modelling.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop a finance team.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience presenting financial information and recommendations to senior leadership teams and Boards.